The force said the victim was a pedestian in his late 50s who was struck by oncoming traffic and died as a result of his injuries.

Inspector Russ Barker said: “The M5 is a central route for people travelling across the country and we’re keen to speak to anyone who was on the stretch of the motorway between junction 3 and 4 near to Frankley Services early this morning.”

The force said the man was on the carriageway “for reasons yet to be established”.

The #M5 is now OPEN in both directions between J3 – J4. Traffic is flowing well in the area. Thank you for your patience. pic.twitter.com/lmuQk9BCex